We updated this article in August 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.
Step aside, animal proteins: The best vegan protein powders are just as effective at boosting your workouts, helping with weight loss, and encouraging muscle gains as any other variety. And whether you’re solidly vegan or just trying to introduce more plant-based foods to your diet, these protein powders can keep you energized through your next workout—and they’ll even help your recovery, too.
From hemp to peas, soy to brown rice, there’s no shortage of vegan protein sources to try. Although the average whey protein powder contains slightly more protein than plant-based alternatives, explains Amy Shapiro, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., a New York-based dietitian, the latter supplies more fiber and other important nutrients. That’s not a bad tradeoff if you ask us.
But not all plant-based protein powders are equal—when it comes to taste, ingredients, and amount of protein, a few solid choices rise to the top. Ahead, find the best vegan protein powders on the market and learn exactly how to pick the best option for you and your goals.
Ready to add an extra dose of protein to your diet? These are the best vegan protein powders to buy online.
How we chose the best vegan protein powders
We consulted Shapiro, New Jersey-based dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade, R.D., author of Belly Fat Diet For Dummies, countless customer reviews, and tested some ourselves to find the best vegan protein powders available.
Our top picks
Best Overall Vegan Protein Powder
All-in-One Shake Vega One Read MoreBest High-Protein Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant-Based Protein Garden of Life Read MoreBest Blend Vegan Protein Powder
Plant-Based Protein Powder Pure Food Read MoreBest Tasting Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant Protein Powder KOS Read MoreBest Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant Protein Blend Amazing Grass Read MoreBest Value Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Protein Powder Orgain Read MoreBest Gut-Friendly Vegan Protein Powder
Vegan Protein Shake EarthChimp Read MoreBest Hemp Vegan Protein Powder
Hemp Protein Powder Hemp Yeah! Read MoreBest Keto-Friendly Vegan Protein Powder
Keto Protein Powder Orgain Read More
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Best Overall Vegan Protein Powder
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Best High-Protein Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant-Based Protein4
Best Blend Vegan Protein Powder
Plant-Based Protein Powder5
Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant Protein Powder6
Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Plant Protein Blend7
Best Value Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Protein Powder8
Best Gut-Friendly Vegan Protein Powder
Vegan Protein Shake9
Best Hemp Vegan Protein Powder
Hemp Protein Powder10
Best Keto-Friendly Vegan Protein Powder
Keto Protein Powder11
Best Low-Carb Vegan Protein Powder
Organic Vegan Protein PowderHow to choose the best vegan protein powder
Pay attention to the ingredients list. Shapiro prefers certified USDA organic and non-GMO brands, as well as options that include healthy additions like green blends, flaxseed, cranberry seeds, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. On the other hand, fiber fillers, including guar gum and chicory root, can upset your stomach in high quantities, she warns. Some vegan protein powders also include added sugars and sweeteners like sucralose, which Shapiro doesn’t recommend; “I’m OK with products sweetened with stevia or monk fruit, though,” she says. And watch out for caffeine, which isn’t ideal to consume accidentally.
But don’t obsess over complete protein. Single-source protein powders, like soy, pea protein, and hemp isolate, as opposed to blends of many ingredients, are ideal, Shapiro says. “Sure, they’re not complete proteins, but over the course of the day, your amino acids will balance out,” she explains. “You don’t need to have complementary proteins at one meal. It can happen throughout the day.” And although not all vegan protein powders contain complete proteins, soy-based options (along with some plant-based protein blends) do.
Find the right amount of protein. Look for 15 to 21 grams of protein per serving. “This is within the window I recommend for satiety, staying power, and repleting the muscles,” Shapiro explains. Also of note: “Total carbs should be fairly low at about 7 grams or less, and sugars at 1 to 2 grams per serving.”